Rumor: Apple to Release iPad3 and iOS5.1 in Early Feb

A new rumor suggests Apple is planning to hold an earlier-than-expected special event in early February to introduce its iPad3 running iOS 5.1.

Citing both an Asian supplier and a source in the U.S, Japanese website Macotakara reported last Tuesday that the unveiling of a so-called "iPad 3" as well as iOS 5.1 will occur in February. However, the report inclines to claim that the new iPad would still launch in early March, much like the iPad 2 in 2011.

Last year, the iPad 2 was introduced in a media event held on March 2, and the device went on sale just 9 days later on March 11. But the latest news suggests that this time there may be a delay for Chinese factories have been off to celebrate Chinese New Year.

Recent reports have suggested that Foxconn and Pegatron will begin offering the first batch of "iPad 3" in early March. Rumors have generally agreed that the next iPad will support a new high-resolution Retina display same as the screens currently found on the iPhone and iPod touch. There have also been claims that Apple will continue to sell the current-generation iPad 2 at a lower price.